Environment Minister Sirsa stated that Delhis air quality showed notable improvement in 2025 compared to 2024. He cited data indicating that the average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the first five months of the year was 214, better than the 231 recorded during the same period last year. Additionally, the average PM2.5 concentration fell to 95 micrograms per cubic metre, down from 111 in 2024.

PM2.5 refers to fine inhalable particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less, known to pose serious health risks. The safe annual standard for PM2.5 is 40 micrograms per cubic metre. Sirsa also noted that May 2025 marked the cleanest air for the month in over ten years. The average AQI for May fell in the moderate category—a rare occurrence given the typically poor readings for this time of year.

He credited the improvement to the governments effective implementation of environmental measures, contrasting it with previous administrations that, according to him, struggled with execution. The consistent drop in pollution levels shows that our well-rounded strategy is making a real impact, Sirsa asserted. However, despite the minister’s claims, it’s important to note that Delhi also experienced its wettest May since records began in 1901, with 186.4 mm of rainfall by May 25. The heavy rains likely played a significant role in dispersing pollutants and reducing dust levels.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.